Chris Bridges (trombone), Keith Phillips (guitar), Dave
Tompkins (double bass) & Hugh Lawrence (drums)
(Review by
Russell).
The quartet CUSP are the duo String and Bone - Chris
Bridges, trombone, and Keith Phillips guitar - augmented by the bass
and drums pairing of Dave Tompkins and Hugh Lawrence. The band's debut CD all there is has stirred sufficient interest to
make it worthwhile taking it on the road. The Cluny
The low attendance could, perhaps, be explained away
by reference to the half term holiday, the close proximity to the Evolution
Festival staged over the long bank holiday weekend, the 'summer' weather, a
crowded north east jazz calendar or the inescapable fact that CUSP aren't
household names. A combination of factors seems most likely in explaining the
disappointing turn out.
Keith Phillips is an exponent of seventies-style fusion
guitar playing. The guitarist's tune Metanoia exemplified his approach; assured
pyrotechnics, lyricism intact. Frontline partner Chris Bridges has wide ranging
credits on the free scene including Evan Parker and Paul Dunmall. One observer
at the Jazz North East Schmazz gig suggested the big 'bone blasts were out
of Hannabiell Sanders' book. True, there was a similarity, also think Gary
Valente and you'll get an idea of where Bridges is at.
The Cake
Lie (good guitar/drums exchange), In Dent, Wave Machine and Scragg were culled from the CD all there is and an older
tune - Route 49 - gave every indication that CUSP will
continue to develop and it would be good to hear them again. Dave Tompkins'
bass playing was fine although he was over-amplified on the evening and
drummer Hugh Lawrence's busy style powered the band across two sets.
Russell.
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